Constantinople AD 717-18

Paintings of the Siege of Constantinople 717-18

These are original paintings by Graham Turner, painted in gouache on watercolour board for the Osprey book 'Constantinople 717-18'. They are unique pieces of hand-painted artwork by this well known historical artist - CLICK HERE for more information about how to purchase one of these paintings, or to arrange to visit us to view the originals.

For details of more original paintings by Graham Turner from other periods of history that are also available for sale, CLICK HERE.

Studio 88 also publishes an extensive range of prints and greeting cards from Graham Turner's historical paintings, with print prices from £15 and cards £1.50. CLICK HERE to go to the main menu and see what is available.

Ambush of an Arab Patrol - Original painting by Graham Turner from Osprey book 'Constantinople 717-18'

Ambush of an Arab Patrol Ref: GT347-A

A detachment of Byzantine soldiers prepares to ambush an approaching Arab patrol, while in the distance the massive Arab army kicks up the dust as it marches through the Taurus mountains towards Constantinople.

Gouache painting by Graham Turner - image size 19"x 13" (48 x 33cm)

click on image to enlarge

Price: £750.00

Greek Fire - Original painting by Graham Turner from Osprey book 'Constantinople 717-18'

Greek Fire Ref: GT347-B

On September 3rd 717, the rearguard of the Arab fleet, twenty ships transporting 2,000 marines, is thrown into disarray by a change in the wind direction as it passes Constantinople's city walls. Taking advantage of the situation, Byzantine dromons swoop down on the helpless Arab ships, spraying them with Greek Fire, immolating the Arab ships and their crews.

Gouache painting by Graham Turner - image size 19"x 13" (48 x 33cm)

click on image to enlarge

Price: £750.00

The Bitter Winter - Original painting by Graham Turner from Osprey book 'Constantinople 717-18'

The Bitter Winter Ref: GT347-C

During the bitter winter of 717/18, the besieging Arab army had to send their foraging parties over ever increasing distances to find meager sustenance, leaving them vulnerable to attack as they searched for food. Here mounted Bulgar warriors pounce on an isolated detachment of cold and hungry Arab soldiers with their meagre catch of two small rabbits.

Gouache painting by Graham Turner - image size 19"x 13" (48 x 33cm)

click on image to enlarge

Price: £750.00

Purchasing an Original Painting

Graham Turner's Original Paintings are offered for sale by the artist himself, so if you are interested in purchasing an original painting, please email Graham Turner at graham@studio88.co.uk to discuss the purchase.

The cost of shipping original paintings varies, depending on their size, value and destination. Our usual shipping rates do not apply, but we would be happy to provide a quote for shipping to your address if required.

CLICK HERE for more information about buying an original.

Artist signed Osprey book, Campaign 347, Constantinople AD 717-18

Constantinople AD 717-18 Ref: CAM347
The Crucible of History

by Si Sheppard

Includes three paintings by Graham Turner

Books bought from Studio 88 are individually hand-signed by artist Graham Turner

From the publisher's website:
The siege of Constantinople in AD 717-18 was the supreme crisis of Western civilization.

The Byzantine Empire had been reeling under the onslaught of Arabic imperialism since the death of the Prophet, whilst Jihadist armies had detached Syria, Palestine, Egypt, and Carthage from imperial control and were in the process of imposing their ascendancy at sea. The Empire had been reduced to its Anatolian and Balkan heartland, and Arab incursions threatened even this - Arab naval forces had appeared under the walls of Constantinople every year from AD 674 to 678. But all this was only a prelude to the massive combined-arms invasion force that advanced on the capital in 717.

This volume offers a comprehensive study of the ensuing clash between the ascendant Caliphate and the Empire at bay. It details the forces available to each side, with their respective advantages and vulnerabilities, evaluating the leadership qualities of the rival commanders and assessing their strategic and tactical initiatives. It also accounts for the trajectory and outcome of the campaign and emphasises the fundamental significance of the struggle. By holding the line, the Byzantines gave Europe enough time to develop at its own pace and emerge strong enough to face down its Islamic counterpart on equal terms.

If Constantinople had fallen in 717, could Europe have endured as an independent entity? Could Christianity have survived as major religion? What would the future course of world history have been?

click on image to enlarge

Paperback
248 x 184mm
96 pages
Published March 2020

Price: £15.99

Click here for details of the many other Osprey military history books that Graham Turner has been commissioned to create paintings for.